What Is a YAG Laser? Ophthalmic Nd:YAG Explained

What is a YAG laser and how does it work

The ophthalmic YAG laser is a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Q-switching packs the energy into pulses lasting only a few nanoseconds. When such a pulse is focused inside the eye, the energy density at the focal point is high enough to ionise the material there and create a tiny plasma and a small shock wave. This effect is called photodisruption, and it cuts or breaks structures mechanically rather than burning them.

A visible aiming beam shows the examiner where the invisible treatment beam will focus, and the laser is delivered through a slit lamp so that the target can be seen at high magnification. The focus can be shifted slightly behind the aiming point, a feature that helps avoid damage to adjacent structures. The A.R.C. Laser Q-Las offers a dual-spot aiming beam and focus shifts of 0, 150 and 300 µm posterior.

YAG laser uses in ophthalmology

The best-known uses of the ophthalmic YAG laser are posterior capsulotomy and peripheral iridotomy. After cataract surgery, the capsule that holds the lens implant may become cloudy; a YAG laser can open a clear central window. In angle-closure glaucoma or its prevention, a small hole in the iris lets fluid pass. See YAG laser capsulotomy and YAG laser iridotomy for each procedure from an equipment point of view.

Other applications exist, such as vitreolysis for selected floaters, but indications are for the treating ophthalmologist to decide. This page offers no treatment advice, and any question on a YAG laser procedure should be taken to a clinician.

Key parameters of the Q-Las

The Q-Las is a durable Nd:YAG laser for posterior capsulotomy and iridotomy. Energy is set from 0.5 to 10 mJ through an intuitive control concept, burst mode of 1, 2 or 3 pulses can be changed at the touch of a button, and Quick-Repetition allows up to 10 Hz. Wavelength is 1064 nm and pulse length 4 ns.

Technology is µ-Chip: a coaxial laser beam and slit illumination, an integrated Clear-View filter and an optional head-up display that keeps treatment parameters in view. The Q-Las is offered with PCL5 ZL or PCL5 SHL slit lamps and in the VARIO combination system, and it weighs 12.6 kg as a laser in the slit lamp or 44 kg with table.

• 1064 nm, 4 ns pulses
• Energy 0.5 to 10 mJ
• Burst mode 1, 2 or 3 pulses
• Quick-Repetition up to 10 Hz
• Dual-spot aiming beam, Clear-View filter

SLT or YAG, and combination units

YAG and SLT are different lasers for different jobs. SLT uses 532 nm and lower energies to treat the trabecular meshwork, while YAG uses 1064 nm and higher energies for photodisruption. If you are unsure which your service needs, read SLT versus YAG laser.

Many clinics buy both. The COBRA combines two fully independent lasers in one unit, the CITO 532 for SLT and the Q-Las for capsulotomy and iridotomy, with a wheelchair-accessible two-column table that adjusts up to 920 mm.

Safety, buying and supply in the UAE

Although the YAG beam is invisible, the system is a laser product and requires a trained team, a protective filter and a documented procedure. Ask the supplier about user training, service and warranty, and confirm registration requirements with DHA, DOH or MOHAP.

Beckfinity supplies the Q-Las and the COBRA from A.R.C. Laser in the UAE. Contact our specialists to discuss the right configuration for your eye service.